Swale council is to shed several jobs after cost-cutting proposals to reorganise its sports development department were approved.

In the past, coaching sessions and activities were delivered by a permanent team and a pool of coaches employed on a casual basis as and when required.

Under the new scheme, agreed by Swale’s cabinet, those roles are to be terminated.

The council says it will move away from direct delivery of services and responsibilities will be taken on by sports clubs and voluntary groups – which falls in line with its localism policy.

A report estimates savings of up to £30,000 could be made by 2015.

Two sports development officers who shared one full-time position will lose their jobs. The position of recreation officer, which is vacant, will be discontinued.

A network of 18 multi-sports coaches who used to be hired for short periods of time when needed will no longer receive contracts.

In their place, a new community officer post will be created with the task of helping voluntary groups bid for funding and to enlist residents to support activities in their area.

The changes come into place on October 1 and it follows a 12-week public consultation to change the service which ended in May.

The plans have been put forward because of the pressures faced by the council due to reduced government funding.

Other reasons include a 2011 sports and leisure appraisal which recommended the service was reviewed.

Cllr Mike Whiting, cabinet member for localism, said: “I believe sports clubs, schools and others are best placed to deliver sporting activity in the borough. In fact, the majority of sporting activity has always been provided by them.

“This review recognises that, and clearly sets out the council’s commitment to providing the help necessary to enable them to run successfully and for new clubs to form.

“I was pleased that the report received cross-party support and believe the measures in the review will help create a healthier and more active Swale.”